Glossary of Terms

A number of words / phrases are associated with spectacles, opticians and eyewear. Some of them may be unfamiliar so we've listed some of them below together with what they mean:

Single Vision

Means that the lenses have one single prescription across their entire area. So single vision lenses will be used for near (reading) OR distance OR intermediate (computer use).

Bifocal

Means that there are separate sections in the lenses so that they can be used for near (reading) AND distance. At Glasses UK we use the D (on it's side) shaped segment in the lower part of the lens for the reading part of the prescription.

Varifocal

This allows you to use your glasses for reading and distance without there being an obvious section in your glasses for reading. The distance to reading area is graduated which makes a more pleasing look to the lens.